[Doug Stankey]

Yes, people should be aware of this aspect of writing. Send only samples, never send any significant part of a manuscript without first obtaining a contract and having some means to justify claiming original authorship (such as extensive notes and drafts).

Some years ago, a former teacher of mine wrote a couple of computer programming books. He sent them to several prospective publishers, but they all turned him down. Apparently they thought they weren't worth paying for his manuscript, but someone felt it was worth stealing! He later found examples of his books for sale in local book stores, attributed to a different "author".

So, beware people! Apart from limited samples, never let anyone you don't absolutely trust have access to your opus until you have a contract.

DGS